“I write only for my shadow which is cast on the wall in front of the light. I must introduce myself to it.”
As Iran continues to evolve politically, socially and culturally, understanding the complexities of this pivotal nation becomes increasingly important. With its rich history, diverse cultures and significant role in global affairs, Iran offers a fascinating lens through which we can explore the broader Middle East. Iran remains at the centre of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, making it essential to stay informed about its past, present and future. Books provide a unique opportunity to explore Iran’s multifaceted identity, offering insights into its politics, literature and the lives of its people. Whether you’re looking to understand the intricate balance between tradition and modernity, the impact of recent political shifts or the personal stories that illuminate everyday realities of Iranian life, we here at What We Reading have compiled our favourite books about Iran to help you discover all there is to see about the nation.
Persepolis: The Story Of A Childhood – Marjane Satrapi
First up on our list of the best books about Iran is Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis. In this powerful black-and-white comic, Satrapi tells the story of her upbringing in Tehran from the age of six to fourteen, a span of time that saw the toppling of the Shah, the Islamic Revolution and the apocalyptic effects of the Iran-Iraq War.
Persepolis paints an unforgettable portrait of daily life in Iran and the bewildering contradictions between home and public life. Marjane’s child-like perspective of dethroned emperors, state-sanctioned whippings and the heroes of the revolution allows readers to gain a valuable insight into a country undergoing incredible transformations, as well as into her own extraordinary family. Intensely personal, profoundly political and innovative in its delivery, Satrapi’s book on Iran is a coming-of-age tale and a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and political repression.
The Blind Owl – Sadegh Hedayat
Considered one of Iran’s most important modern works, The Blind Owl is a haunting and surreal exploration of the human psyche set within the backdrop of the country during the early twentieth century. The narrative follows an unnamed narrator, whose descent into mental and emotional turmoil is intertwined with vivid, dreamlike sequences that blur the lines between reality and hallucination.
Hedayat’s masterful use of symbolism and psychological depth captures the sense of alienation and inner conflict that many Iranians faced during a period of immense cultural and political upheaval. The Blind Owl powerfully reflects the darker aspects of Iranian society, making it essential reading for anyone looking to understand the country’s emotional and intellectual landscape.
The Shia Revival: How Conflicts Within Islam Will Shape The Future – Vali Nasr
In The Shia Revival, Vali Nasr compellingly explores the rise of Shia Islam and its profound impact on the politics and geopolitics of the Middle East, most notably in Iran. Nasr examines how Shia Islam, once marginalised, has gained significance within the region, reshaping the balance of power.
The book delves into the historical roots of Shia Islam, tracing its evolution from the early days of the Islamic world to its role at the heart of contemporary Iran. Nasr highlights the relationship between Iran’s Shia leadership and the broader Shia communities across the Middle East, showcasing how Iran’s political and religious ideology has moulded the region’s conflicts and alliances, and helping to establish The Shia Revival as one of the most invaluable books for understanding Iran’s crucial role in politics across the region and within the Islamic world.
The Soul Of Iran: A Nation’s Journey To Freedom – Afshin Molavi
Afshin Molavi’s The Soul of Iran provides one of the most nuanced explorations of modern Iran, tracing the cultural, political and social landscapes that have marked the country’s journey from revolution to the present day. Molavi provides an insightful analysis of the forces shaping Iran’s identity, from the 1979 Revolution to the ongoing quest for freedom and reform within its borders.
The Soul of Iran delves into the complex relationship between Iran’s rich cultural history and its present political realities, highlighting the role of the youth, intellectuals, and reformists in the fraught struggles for freedom. Molavi also examines Iran’s geopolitical influence in the Middle East and its efforts to balance revolutionary ideals against greater demands on the global stage, making it undoubtedly one of the best books for understanding the inner workings of Iranian society and the aspirations of its people.
The Persian Puzzle: The Conflict Between Iran And America – Kenneth M. Pollack
The definitive book about Iran for understanding the complex relationship between the Middle Eastern nation and the United States, Kenneth Pollack offers a comprehensive analysis of the complex and often contentious relationship between the two countries in The Persian Puzzle. Pollack traces the history between the two from the 1979 Iranian Revolution to the present day, diving into the deep-rooted mistrust, geopolitical interests and competing regional agendas that have defined US-Iran relations.
Pollack also examines the broader implications of this competition for the Middle East, highlighting Iran’s role as a key player in regional power struggles. The Persian Puzzle provides valuable context for understanding Iran’s influence in the region and the challenges faced by both Iran and the United States as they navigate their complex and often adversarial relationship.
Reading Lolita In Tehran: A Memoir In Books – Azar Nafisi
Azar Nafisi’s Reading Lolita in Tehran is a powerful memoir that intertwines personal stories with the exploration of literature’s role within Iran’s complex political landscape. Set during the heyday of the Islamic Revolution, Nafisi chronicles her experience of teaching Western literature to a group of female students in the nation’s capital city, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those living under a repressive regime.
Through her reflections on Lolita and The Great Gatsby, Nafisi illuminates the transformative power of literature as a means of resistance against censorship and oppression. Reading Lolita in Tehran also offers readers a book on Iran that illustrates societal tensions in the country from the rise of theocratic rule to the constraints placed on women’s freedoms. Nafisi’s work is also a go-to for anyone looking for insights into the inner workings of Iranian society, the resilience of its people and the role of intellectualism in navigating political turmoil.
The Septembers Of Shiraz – Dalia Sofer
The Septembers of Shiraz is another gripping Iran book set during the 1979 Revolution that offers a poignant portrait of the personal and political upheaval experienced by an Iranian Jewish family. The story orbits around Isaac, a Jewish businessman, who is arrested and imprisoned following the fall of the Shah’s regime. As Isaac’s family wrestles with the uncertainty of his fate, the novel deftly blends their individual struggles with broader societal changes.
Through the lens of Isaac’s wife, daughter and son, Dalia Sofer examines themes of loyalty, survival and identity as they navigate life under the new Islamic regime. The book also highlights the tensions faced by Iran’s Jewish community as they find themselves caught between political revolution and religious persecution. The Septembers of Shiraz remains one of the best books about Iran for anyone looking to understand the impact of the Revolution on ordinary people, especially those belonging to marginalised groups.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
